Davis said each electric bus will save on fuel costs and reduce carbon emissions by 1,690 tons over its 12-year life span. Each bus' reduced emissions are equivalent to removing 27 cars from the road, he said.

The electric buses are expected to be delivered in late 2018 and in service in early 2019.

StarTran’s fleet includes 67 full-size buses and 13 HandiVans. Nearly one-third of the vehicles will use compressed natural gas by spring 2018. That includes 13 buses, two trolleys and 11 HandiVans. Compressed natural gas offers increased environmental benefits, operates more quietly than diesel and, on average, costs less per gallon than diesel, according to a news release.

Subscribe to Daily Headlines

* I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.